Why choose Ledger for your crypto start?
Starting with crypto is exciting but can feel risky if your keys aren't protected. A hardware wallet isolates your private keys on a secure device so transactions are signed offline. Ledger devices combine a secure element chip with an intuitive interface, giving you both safety and usability as you begin. Whether your goal is hodling long-term, trading, or exploring decentralized apps, Ledger helps you begin safely.
Quick 6-step Ledger Start setup
- Unbox & verify: Ensure your Ledger device packaging is sealed and genuine. Check the device model and included recovery card.
- Install Ledger Live: Download Ledger Live from the official site and install it on your computer or smartphone. Always verify the URL before downloading.
- Create a new device: Power on the device, choose "Set up as new device", and follow the on-device prompts.
- Write down your recovery phrase: Ledger will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down exactly on the provided recovery sheet. Do not store it digitally or share it.
- Install apps in Ledger Live: Use Ledger Live to install specific cryptocurrency apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) to your device—these apps allow you to manage each asset.
- Receive a test transfer: Start with a small transfer to confirm everything works. Check the receive address on the device screen before sending from an exchange or wallet.
Security note: Ledger will never ask for your 24-word recovery phrase via email, support chat, or any website. Treat your recovery phrase like the master key to your funds.
Best practices after your Ledger Start
After you complete your Ledger Start, adopt these habits:
- Keep your recovery phrase offline in a secure physical location (or split across multiple secure locations).
- Use a passphrase (optional advanced feature) for an extra account layer—only if you understand how to manage that complexity.
- Regularly update Ledger Live and your device firmware via official releases to patch security improvements.
- Avoid installing untrusted third-party apps that prompt for your recovery phrase or private key.
Common pitfalls to avoid
New users often fall for phishing pages, fake support, or share recovery words thinking it's required. Always confirm you're on the authentic site when you visit any Ledger-related guide. Double-check addresses on your device’s screen before confirming sends. If you ever lose your device, use your recovery phrase on a compatible wallet to restore. If you suspect your recovery phrase was exposed, move funds to a new wallet immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 1. What is the Ledger Start process?
- The Ledger Start process covers unboxing your Ledger device, installing Ledger Live, generating and safely recording your 24-word recovery phrase, installing cryptocurrency apps, and testing a small transfer to confirm correct setup.
- 2. Can I restore my wallet if I lose my Ledger device?
- Yes — using your 24-word recovery phrase you can restore your wallets on another Ledger device or any compatible BIP39-compliant wallet. Protect that phrase; it's the only backup.
- 3. Is Ledger Live mandatory to use the device?
- Ledger Live provides a user-friendly interface to manage apps and accounts. Advanced users can use compatible third-party wallets, but Ledger Live simplifies the Ledger Start and ongoing management.
- 4. What should I do if my recovery phrase is exposed?
- If you believe your phrase is compromised, immediately move your funds to a new wallet with a brand new recovery phrase. Treat exposure as urgent.
- 5. How do I confirm that an address is correct when receiving funds?
- Always verify the receive address directly on your Ledger device screen and match it to the address shown in Ledger Live or the wallet interface before sending funds.
Final checklist for a confident Ledger Start
Before you call your Ledger Start complete, confirm these items: the recovery phrase is securely recorded, Ledger Live is installed and updated, device firmware is current, and you’ve successfully received a small test transaction. Share nothing sensitive over phone, email or chat; Ledger support will never ask for your recovery phrase.